KSNR Clinical Consensus Statements: Rehabilitation of Patients with Parkinson's Disease

Abstract

Clinical consensus statements (CCSs) aim to improve care for patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) and reduce the variability of rehabilitation methods in clinical practice. A literature search was conducted to find available evidence on the rehabilitation of patients with PD and to determine the scope of CCSs. The selection of PD rehabilitation domains and key questions was done using the modified Delphi method in 43 expert panels. These panels achieved a consensus on 11 key questions regarding rehabilitation assessment and goal setting, gait and balance, activities of daily living, and swallowing and communication disorders. After the completion of an agreement procedure, 11 key consensus statements were developed by the consensus panel. These statements addressed the needs of rehabilitation as a continuum in patients with PD. They included the appropriate rehabilitation initiation time, assessment items, rehabilitation contents, and complication management. This agreement can be used by physiatrists, rehabilitation therapists, and other practitioners who take care of patients with PD. The consensus panel also highlighted areas where a consensus could not be reached. The development of more focused CCS or clinical practice guidelines that target specific rehabilitation approaches is considered the next needed step.